UNDERSTANDING DIABETES: NEW IDEAS ON A SERIOUS EPIDEMIC

Course overview

According to the CDC, over 9 percent of the US population 29 million currently has diabetes. Approximately 28 percent of these individuals are unaware or undiagnosed. More than 1 in 3 individuals 86 million has prediabetes. Unfortunately, the likelihood that the average person will develop diabetes in their lifetime has increased tremendously. According to recent CDC data, 40 percent of US adults will develop diabetes, primarily type 2 diabetes, and over 50 percent of some ethnic minorities will be affected. Such statistics are of great concern because diabetes puts people at significant risk for cardiovascular disease, as well as other conditions such as kidney failure, blindness, and nerve damage, potentially leading to amputation. Furthermore, diabetes and its precursor, insulin resistance has been linked to an increased risk for cognitive decline, certain cancers, depression, sleep apnea and periodontal disease. The CDC has stated Now is the time to take action. We simply cannot sustain this trajectory. The implications are far too great for our families, our healthcare system, our workforce and our nation. This live presentation addresses a range of interventions that can be used to both prevent and manage diabetes. Lifestyle approaches diet, physical activity, quality sleep, stress management and proper oral hygiene are outlined. The importance of weight loss is emphasized. Pharmacological and surgical interventions are addressed. Other types of diabetes, including type 1 and latent autoimmune diabetes of adulthood LADA are also covered. Health care providers who complete this course will gain a much fuller understanding of diabetes, as well as a range of techniques to help their patients or clients improve their overall health.